Date Set for Sugarland, Indiana State Fair Stage Collapse Trial

Approximately 60 people affected by the stage collapse at the Indiana State Fair two years ago will get their day in court this winter. A trial date has been set for those looking to hold Sugarland and the companies responsible for building the stage accountable.

WRTV, the ABC affiliate in Indianapolis, Ind., reports that proceedings will begin in February 2014. Meanwhile, the deadline for anyone injured (or the family of those killed) to file a lawsuit is approaching. State law gives people two years to file in these types of cases. The stage collapsed during a 60MPH wind storm on Aug. 13, 2011.

Seven were killed and dozens were injured as a result of the incident. Sugarland was about to take the stage when they opted to hold off until unusually heavy winds settled. The victims have collectively received $11 million in payments from tort claims and additional money approved by state legislature. Nearly $500,000 in public donations has also been dispersed, WRTV reports.

Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush were already deposed once, but could be asked to again describe their actions before and after the tragedy. They have denied being responsible for the incident, calling it “a true accident, or an act of God.”

Two months after the State Fair date, the duo announced they'd be taking a hiatus. In the meantime, Nettles has given birth to her first baby and recorded her first solo album.